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Tilghman informs students of medical examiner results, Sept. 23

Posted September 23, 2004; 11:16 a.m.

by quinones

Princeton University President Shirley M. Tilghman informed undergraduates this morning of the Mercer County medical examiner's determinations related to the death of Melissa M. Huang. According to the medical examiner, Huang died on Sept. 5, 2004, after ingesting cyanide. The examiner did not make any finding about the circumstances under which this occurred, although police officials earlier ruled out any criminal activity.

"Melissa's parents were notified last evening and the medical examiner will be releasing this information to the press later today," Tilghman wrote. "I know that all of you join me in feeling an enormous sense of sadness and loss, and in expressing our deepest condolences to Melissa's family and friends. Students who would like to talk with counselors are encouraged to contact the Counseling and Psychological Services unit [(609) 258-3285] at the University Health Center. As I hope you know, there will be a memorial service for Melissa on Oct. 17 at 2 p.m. in the University Chapel. I know she touched the lives of many members of this community, and will be long remembered."

Huang, 19, was a student in the School of Engineering and Applied Science. Survivors include her parents, Leon Keng-Lock Huang and Sauling Huang; a brother, Kevin, and a sister, Alina, all of Mechanicsburg, Pa.

The University's Wilson College community has established a fund in memory of Huang. The fund was created with the approval of Huang's family, who will be involved in deciding how to use any contributions. Those interested in honoring her can send donations through the University to: Melissa M. Huang '07 Memorial Fund, Princeton University, c/o Nancy Kalmikoff, Gift Records, P.O. Box 5357, Princeton, NJ 08543-5357.